Hanford, CA – Drivers crossing the Sierra Nevada could face sudden snow-covered roads and lightning by late Monday night, especially above 6,000 feet where visibility may drop quickly during heavier bursts.
According to the National Weather Service in Hanford, periods of heavy snow and scattered thunderstorms will develop Monday night and intensify through Tuesday, the peak impact window. Snow totals could reach 5.3 inches near Huntington Lake and up to 6.9 inches in Tuolumne Meadows by Wednesday morning, with lightning probabilities climbing above 30% in some high-elevation zones.
Key routes like Tioga Pass and sections of Highway 395 may see slick conditions and brief closures if snowfall rates increase Tuesday afternoon. Campgrounds and backcountry areas from Shaver Lake to Mammoth Lakes could also experience rapidly changing weather, including thunder and small hail.
Travelers should avoid non-essential mountain travel during active snowfall, carry chains, and charge devices ahead of time. Lightning adds an added hazard for hikers and campers in exposed terrain.
Snow and storm chances will taper off by Wednesday, but additional advisories may be issued if conditions worsen during Tuesday’s peak.
